Nigerian Army Rescues Eight Kidnap Victims Along Ikang–Cameroon Waterways

Troops of the 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ikang, have successfully rescued eight kidnapped civilians along the Ikang–Cameroon waterways following a swift and coordinated operation on 29 December 2025.

According to military sources, the troops acted on credible intelligence provided by members of the local community, indicating that suspected militants had intercepted a commercial boat along the waterway and abducted eight civilians. The victims comprised six adults and two minors.

Acting promptly on the information, troops were immediately deployed in pursuit of the suspects, while possible escape routes were blocked and the waterways effectively dominated to prevent the militants from fleeing with the captives.

The proactive response forced the suspected militants to abandon the victims at the Ini-Abasi Fishing Port before fleeing into the creeks towards the high sea. The abandoned civilians were subsequently recovered safely by the troops without any resistance.

The rescued victims were conveyed to the Brigade’s location, where they were properly documented and later released to continue their journey. No casualties were recorded during the operation. Troops have since sustained patrols along the waterways to prevent regrouping or further criminal activities by the fleeing suspects.

Commending the troops for their professionalism and swift response, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, praised their commitment to protecting lives and property. He also expressed deep appreciation to members of the local community for providing timely and credible intelligence, which was instrumental to the success of the rescue operation.

Brigadier General Alimikhena reassured residents of the Brigade’s continued resolve to sustain aggressive patrols and deny criminal elements freedom of action within the area. He further urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and reliable information to enhance safety and security.